FIRST STAGE!

FIRST STAGE is an intensive performance-focused programme that provides theatre training and performance opportunities for young people and children.

FIRST STAGE trains and coaches participants through their first performing experiences on the professional stage, working alongside Singapore’s finest actors and entertainers. Since its inception in 2003, more than 150 children have benefitted from FIRST STAGE, and they have performed for an audience of more than 166,000.

FIRST STAGE aims to:

Train young performers in the performance skills and techniques, inspiring joy, confidence and the love of performing live.

Expose the young talent to theatre etiquette, discipline and teamwork.

Provide opportunities for young performers to work with and learn from respected and skilled professionals.

FIRST STAGE is today a holistic theatre training programme, incorporating more fun, behind-the-scenes interaction with actors and production crew, and exciting ways of learning theatre and life skills. FIRST STAGE is part of W!LD RICE’s commitment and legacy to develop and nurture performers and audiences of the future.

If you wish to be notified of future auditions for FIRST STAGE, please send your contact details and CV to

PRAISE FOR FIRST STAGE!

"I was so excited when my aunty brought me for an audition for SNOW WHITE and was so so thrilled when I was selected to perform. I remembered I had butterflies in my stomach then since it was the first time I was on stage for a big show. After some rehearsals, I became confident and the rest was easy. I enjoyed every minute on stage and I am now looking forward to my next performance with BEAUTY & THE BEAST."

"SNOW WHITE rendered a wealth of stage experiences for Gabbi. She witnessed and got involved first hand in the various stages of a large scale pantomime production. From the first rehearsal to the final performance, besides honing skills in dance, drama and music and learning from experienced and celebrated actors, actresses and directors, Gabbi learnt, more importantly, the value of working hard, working in a team, dealing with different perspectives of individuals and having endurance to the end. She reaped the fruit of her labour for she thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience. She also made some really good friends!"

Melissa Wong-Virk, parent of Gabbi Virk

"Vanessa enjoyed every moment in the production of SNOW WHITE, so much that she refused to miss any of the fun-filled month-long rehearsals and the 29 stage shows, even when she felt tired. It was an eye-opener for her, as she got to know about the backstage preparation. She also raised her performance skills for singing & dancing when practising with a group of professional performers. She was so inspired by Elaine Chan’s musical talent that she decided to pick up her piano lessons again!"

"SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS provided Jervyn an excellent platform to theatrical exposure. Not only has she learnt to work as a team player with the entire cast, live performances as such has helped build her self confidence and developed a great sense of achievement."

Jacqueline Tan, parent of Jervyn Tan

"The Foundation, a non-profit organization set up in early 2003 with funding from Singapore Press Holdings, applauds W!LD RICE for staging this favourite children’s production and especially for giving some 27 young kids a chance to perform on stage."

The Press Foundation of Singapore, Sponsor for FIRST STAGE in ALADDIN (2004)

About W!LD RICE

Founded in 2000 by our Founding Artistic Director, Ivan Heng, W!LD RICE is one of Singapore’s leading professional theatre companies. Our mission is to provide a forum for the shared experience of theatre; celebrating our diversity, reflecting on the problems and possibilities of our times, and presenting productions that inspire, challenge and entertain. W!LD RICE is a not-for-profit Singapore Registered Charity, (Institution of a Public Character No. 000122). It is a recipient of the National Arts Council's Major Grant.